ในหลวง

Explanation

This expression is common in everyday speech rather than being a full official title. Its conversational tone remains respectful; it is not a nickname. Which king it refers to depends on context. In a present-day discussion, it usually means King Rama X. In recollections or historical accounts, it may refer to King Rama IX or another Thai king. Adding รัชกาลที่ followed by a number identifies the reign. It is used to refer to the king in the third person. Although it can function like a pronoun, learners can treat it as a noun naming the king.

Usage

You will encounter it in conversations about the king's activities, royal news coverage, commemorative events, and recollections of earlier Thai kings.

Caution

Do not use it as a general title for foreign kings or the Japanese emperor, or as a form of direct address to the king. Thai uses special royal vocabulary for the king's actions and speech. When writing, learn established phrases such as พระราชดำรัสของในหลวง, meaning “the King's words.”

1 the King of Thailand synonyms

• กษัตริย์

  This is a general word for a king or monarch, including foreign and historical rulers. ในหลวง normally refers respectfully to the King of Thailand.

• พระมหากษัตริย์

  phrá mahǎa kasàt king

  This is a formal term for a king or monarch, used in official writing and discussions of the monarchy. ในหลวง is a more familiar way to refer to the Thai king as a person.